Using the Pro-Ject Tube Box DS2 with Willsenton R8 Tube Amplifier

[mbaker5280]

Hi all, hi-fi tube noob here, but have used tube guitar/bass amplifiers before (Ampeg and Fender).

Long story short, I'm trying to figure out if the Pro-ject DS2 Tube Box phono pre-amp can be used with the Willsenton R8 via the 'pre-amp' input.

I am currently running the DS2 into the R8 via the AUX1 input, and all is very well. The DS2 is in 47k mode, not variable. The Willsenton folks told me that the DS2 should be able to run through the pre-amp input, but when I plug it in, I just get a low hum.

Perhaps the variable mode is the proper way to run the DS2 into the R8? I don't want to test this as I don't know if I'm doing any damage to any component, so figured I'd reach out to you all.

Otherwise, I have 2 Technics SL-2000's running into the DS2 - one stereo table, one mono (both Grado), and settled in on the DS2 at 50db and the R8 running in trial mode. I'm also running Dali Spektor 6 loudspeakers. All is sounding great around here...

Anyway, thoughts on the above appreciated!

 

[markmcmuz]

From what I can surmise from a Google search is that the pro-ject is a phono preamp not a phono preamp/ preamp so an aux input is where it belongs on the R8.

 

[opnly bafld]

The pre-in is probably for a line stage preamp; aux1 would be for a source like a TT with a phono pre.

Edit: markmcmuz beat me to it by that much.

 

[markmcmuz]

Btw listening to a R8 right now and we really enjoy it. My wife and I spend most evenings listening to music instead of watching tv. I'll bet yours sounds great with a tube phono pre!

 

[markmcmuz]

The pre-in is probably for a line stage preamp; aux1 would be for a source like a TT with a phono pre.

That is correct.

 

[Mr Boochie]

I plug my Pro-ject DS tube box into the AUX input of my pre-amp.

 

[mbaker5280]

Perfect. I had a feeling it required something totally different, so glad I asked!! I'll do some more research but I think I have enough gear for the moment. Thank you !!!!

From what I can surmise from a Google search is that the pro-ject is a phono preamp not a phono preamp/ preamp so an aux input is where it belongs on the R8.

 

[mbaker5280]

It most definitely does... and actually really happy with how my bluetooth adapter sounds playing digital streams through the R8... Now if I could just get the TV turned off more and the music up we'd really be in business!!!

Btw listening to a R8 right now and we really enjoy it. My wife and I spend most evenings listening to music instead of watching tv. I'll bet yours sounds great with a tube phono pre!